The Impact of digital technologies on fish supply chain management: a study of online marketplaces and logistics optimisation. A case study of Lake Harvest.

Author
Maraidza, Sharai M.
Title
The Impact of digital technologies on fish supply chain management: a study of online marketplaces and logistics optimisation. A case study of Lake Harvest.
Abstract
This research investigates the impact of digital technologies on fish supply chain management in Zimbabwe, using Lake Harvest as a case study. The study was guided by three objectives: to explore the impact of digital technology on fish supply chain management, to examine the effect of online marketplaces and logistics optimization on supply chain efficiency, and to identify the benefits and challenges of adopting digital technologies in the sector. A mixed-method research design was employed, combining questionnaires, interviews, and observations. The study used purposive and snowball sampling techniques to select 30 participants comprising fish farmers, transporters, and buyers. Findings reveal that digital technologies, particularly online marketplaces, Internet of Things (IOT) tools, and digital communication platforms, enhance operational efficiency, traceability, and coordination across the supply chain. Notable benefits include improved inventory visibility, faster payment processing, and increased customer reach via platforms like WhatsApp Business and social media. However, the study also identifies barriers such as high implementation costs, poor internet infrastructure, digital resistance among employees, and low consumer digital literacy. These challenges hinder full digital integration. The research concludes that while digitalisation presents clear strategic and operational advantages, its effectiveness depends on coordinated planning, stakeholder involvement, and supportive policy frameworks. The study provides practical recommendations for supply chain stakeholders and contributes to academic discourse on digital transformation in agro-industrial contexts.
Date
June 2025
Publisher
BUSE
Keywords
Logistics Optimisation
Online Marketplaces
Lake Harvest
Digital Technologies
Supply Chain Management
Supervisor
Ms. S. Nyengerai
Item sets
Department of Marketing
Media
Maraidza, Sharai M..pdf

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